Overcoming Challenges and Seizing Opportunities: Trina Solar’s ​​Approach to Energy Storage in the Asia Pacific Region – Dr. Leo Zhao, Head of Energy Storage, Trina Solar Asia Pacific

Q1: What recent energy storage innovations has Trina Solar introduced in the Asia Pacific region? What makes these products stand out in today’s market?

Trina Storage (a business unit of Trina Solar) has introduced the Elementa 2, a grid-scale lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery system designed for utility-scale projects in the Asia Pacific region. The Elementa 2 has undergone extensive improvements in cell capacity, packs and system. These improvements are designed to achieve the optimum balance between capacity and cost, packaged in a standard 20-foot container. What sets it apart is that the Elementa 2 is built from the ground up using Trina’s vertically integrated LFP cells, manufactured in-house. The Trina 306Ah LFP cells have a lifespan of up to 12,000 cycles. It is further optimised for thermal management and battery management, as well as monitoring. Another feature of the Elementa 2 is its space-saving design, achieving a remarkable 26% reduction in footprint thanks to the single-sided door opening feature and back-to-back system layout. Elementa 2 also offers greater operational flexibility and is suitable for standalone AC and DC coupled systems.

Q2: What technology trends do you think will impact energy storage in the Asia Pacific region over the next five years, and how does Trinasolar plan to capitalize on them?

In the next five years, key technology trends will include advances in battery technology, the integration of AI into energy management, and the development of hybrid renewable systems. The foundation for all of these trends is technological innovation and high-quality products. As such, Trinasolar remains committed to research and development and continues to set industry standards and benchmarks in performance and sustainability. Trina Storage has established four R&D platforms: Energy Storage Battery Research Institute, Power Electronics Technology R&D Center, Energy Storage Engineering Technology Center, and Digital Energy Research Institute⁽¹⁾. The company is accredited by UL, TÜV SÜD and CNAS as a witness laboratory. Our investments in intelligent manufacturing and AI-based management systems ensure that we deliver efficient and reliable solutions. Leveraging our vertically integrated capabilities and strong R&D platforms, we will continue to lead the way in delivering advanced, end-to-end energy storage solutions.

Q3: How does Trinasolar innovate to create solutions tailored to Asia Pacific markets?

Trinasolar drives innovation through solid R&D and a deep understanding of regional market needs. By actively engaging local stakeholders, we tailor our solutions to specific regional requirements. For example, we offer two versions of Element 2 in APAC – 4 MWh and 5 MWh – to meet different preferences in different countries. In addition, our integrated approach, combining solar modules, trackers and storage systems, provides a comprehensive solution for the Asia Pacific markets.

Q4: What are the challenges and opportunities for deploying energy storage in the Asia Pacific region and how is Trinasolar addressing them?

An important aspect that cannot be ignored is the diverse landscape of countries in the Asia-Pacific region. Each country presents unique regulatory requirements, grid integration challenges and varying levels of market maturity in terms of energy storage deployment.

Trinasolar puts significant effort into understanding electricity markets and renewable energy regulations. Using our expertise and experience, we strive to develop solutions that can help companies achieve their net zero emissions and sustainability goals.

In addition, our unique position as a total solutions provider, offering modules and trackers as well as energy storage systems, sets us apart in the industry. Our significant in-house battery cell manufacturing capabilities support our commitment to energy storage, offering containerized storage solutions to independent power producers (IPPs). Expansion into these verticals broadens our reach and allows us to diversify beyond our traditional solar offering. This is particularly important in key markets such as India, Japan and Australia, where interest in green hydrogen, ammonia and 24/7 (RTC) energy solutions is growing. Our ability to innovate and adapt ensures that we remain at the forefront of the renewable energy sector, meeting the evolving needs of the Asia Pacific markets.

In addition, having Trinasolar as a single source for solar modules, trackers and BESS helps streamline processes, enabling faster delivery, smoother negotiations and unified after-sales service. This approach not only reduces costs but also ensures efficiency, especially in difficult field conditions.

This makes us not only a product supplier, but also an irreplaceable partner for most EPCs and developers.

Q5: How does Trinasolar ensure that its energy storage solutions comply with changing regulations and meet customer expectations in the Asia Pacific region?

Trinasolar proactively monitors regulatory changes and participates in industry forums to ensure compliance and exceed customer expectations. Our solutions, such as Elementa 2, feature robust fire protection, precise thermal management, and intelligent operation and maintenance to ensure safety and efficiency. We exceed regulatory requirements and prioritize customer service with comprehensive support and training programs, helping customers maximize the benefits of our energy storage solutions.

Trinasolar’s commitment to innovation and quality makes us a leader in shaping the future of energy storage in the Asia Pacific region and beyond.⁽¹⁾https://static.trinasolar.com/us/resources/newsroom/Trina-Storage-ranks-among-Top-5

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